Electrolyte for electrochemical device

ABSTRACT

The invention relates to an electrolyte for an electrochemical device. This electrolyte includes a first compound that is an ionic metal complex represented by the general formula (1); and at least one compound selected from special second to fourth compounds, fifth to ninth compounds respectively represented by the general formulas A a+ (PF 6   − ) a , A a+ (ClO 4   − ) a , A a+ (BF 4   − ) a , A a+ (AsF 6   − ) a , and A a+ (SbF 6   − ) a , and special tenth to twelfth compounds,                    
     The electrolyte is superior in cycle characteristics and shelf life as compared with conventional electrolytes.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to an electrolyte, an ion conductor including the electrolyte, and electrochemical devices including the electrolyte, such as lithium cells, lithium ion cells, electrical double-layer capacitors.

Accompanying the evolution of portable equipment in recent years, there has been active development of electrochemical devices utilizing electrochemical phenomena, such as cells for use as their power supplies and capacitors. In addition, electrochromic devices (ECD), in which a color change occurs due to an electrochemical reaction, are examples of electrochemical devices for uses other than power supplies.

These electrochemical devices are typically composed of a pair of electrodes and an ion conductor filled between them. The ion conductor contains a salt (AB) as an electrolyte, which is dissolved in a solvent, polymer or mixture thereof such that the salt is dissociated into cations (A⁺) and anions (B⁻), resulting in ionic conduction. In order to obtain the required level of ion conductivity for the device, it is necessary to dissolve a sufficient amount of this electrolyte in solvent or polymer. In actuality, there are many cases in which a solvent other than water is used, such as organic solvents and polymers. Electrolytes having sufficient solubility in such organic solvents and polymers are presently limited to only a few types. For example, electrolytes having sufficient solubility for use in lithium cells are only LiClO₄, LiPF₆, LiBF₄, LiAsF₆, LiN(SO₂CF₃)₂, LiN(SO₂C₂F₅)₂, LiN(SO₂CF₃)(SO₂C₄F₉) and LiCF₃SO₃. Although the cation type of the electrolyte is frequently limited by the device as is the case with the lithium ion of lithium cells, any anion can be used for the electrolyte provided it satisfies the condition of having high solubility.

Amidst the considerable diversity of the application range of these devices, efforts are made to seek out the optimum electrolyte for each application. Under the present circumstances, however, optimization efforts have reached their limit due to the limited types of available anions. In addition, existing electrolytes have various problems, thereby creating the need for an electrolyte having a novel anion portion. More specifically, since ClO₄ ion of LiClO₄ is explosive and AsF₆ ion of LiAsF₆ is toxic, they cannot be used for reasons of safety. Even the only practical electrolyte of LiPF₆ has problems including heat resistance and hydrolysis resistance. Although electrolytes of LiN(CF₃SO₂)₂, LiN(SO₂C₂F₅)₂, LiN(SO₂CF₃)(SO₂C₄F₉) and LiCF₃SO₃ are stable and high in ionic conductivity, they corrode the aluminum collector inside the cell when a potential is applied. Therefore, their use presents difficulties.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a useful novel electrolyte, a novel ion conductor containing the electrolyte, and a novel electrochemical device containing the ion conductor.

According to the present invention, there is provided an electrolyte for an electrochemical device. This electrolyte comprises:

a first compound that is an ionic metal complex represented by the general formula (1); and

at least one compound selected from the group consisting of second to fourth compounds respectively represented by the general formulas (2) to (4), fifth to ninth compounds respectively represented by the general formulas A^(a+)(PF⁶⁻)_(a), A^(a+)(ClO₄ ⁻)_(a), A^(a+)(BF₄ ⁻)_(a), A^(a+)(AsF₆ ⁻)_(a), and A^(a+)(SbF₆ ⁻)_(a), and tenth to twelfth compounds respectively represented by the general formulas (5) to (7),

wherein M is a transition metal selected from the group consisting of elements of groups 3-11 of the periodic table, or an element selected from the group consisting of elements of groups 12-15 of the periodic table;

A^(a+) represents a metal ion, onium ion or hydrogen ion;

a represents a number from 1 to 3; b represents a number from 1 to 3; p is b/a; m represents a number from 1 to 4; n represents a number from 0 to 8; q is 0 or 1;

X¹ represents O, S, NR⁵ or NR⁵R⁶;

each of R¹ and R² independently represents H, a halogen, a C₁-C₁₀ alkyl group or C₁-C₁₀ halogenated alkyl group;

R³ represents a C₁-C₁₀ alkylene group, C₁-C₁₀ halogenated alkylene group, C₄-C₂₀ arylene group or C₄-C₂₀ halogenated arylene group, these alkylene and arylene groups of said R³ optionally having substituents and hetero atoms, one of said R³ being optionally bonded with another of said R³;

R⁴ represents a halogen, C₁-C₁₀ alkyl group, C₁-C₁₀ halogenated alkyl group, C₄-C₂₀ aryl group, C₄-C₂₀ halogenated aryl group or X²R⁷, these alkyl and aryl groups of said R⁴ optionally having substituents and hetero atoms, one of said R⁴ being optionally bonded with another of said R⁴;

X² represents O, S, NR⁵ or NR⁵R⁶;

each of R⁵ and R⁶ represents H or a C₁-C₁₀ alkyl group;

R⁷ represents a C₁-C₁₀ alkyl group, C₁-C₁₀ halogenated alkyl group, C₄-C₂₀ aryl group or C₄-C₂₀ halogenated aryl group;

each of x, y and z independently represents a number from 1 to 8

each of Y¹, Y² and Y³ independently represents a SO₂ group or CO group; and

each of R⁸, R⁹ and R¹⁰ independently represents an electron-attractive organic substituent optionally having a substituent or a hetero atom, at least two of said R⁸, R⁹ and R¹⁰ being optionally bonded together to form a ring, at least one of said R⁸, R⁹ and R¹⁰ being optionally bonded with an adjacent molecule to form a polymer.

According to the present invention, there is provided an ion conductor for an electrochemical device. This ion conductor comprises the electrolyte; and a member selected from the group consisting of a nonaqueous solvent, a polymer and a mixture thereof, said member dissolving therein said electrolyte.

According to the present invention, there is provided an electrochemical device comprising (a) first and second electrodes; and (b) the ion conductor receiving therein said first and second electrodes.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

An electrolyte according to the present invention is superior in cycle characteristics and shelf life as compared with conventional electrolytes. Thus, the electrolyte can advantageously be used for electrochemical devices such as lithium cell, lithium ion cell and electrical double-layer capacitor.

According to the invention, the alkyl groups, halogenated alkyl groups, aryl groups and halogenated aryl groups, which are contained in the ionic metal complex and the raw materials for synthesizing the same, may be branched and/or may have other functional groups such as hydroxyl groups and ether bonds.

The followings are specific nine examples of the ionic metal complex represented by the general formula (1) of the present invention.

Here, although lithium ion is indicated as an example of A^(a+) of the general formula (1), examples of other cations that can be used other than lithium ion include sodium ion, potassium ion, magnesium ion, calcium ion, barium ion, cesium ion, silver ion, zinc ion, copper ion, cobalt ion, iron ion, nickel ion, manganese ion, titanium ion, lead ion, chromium ion, vanadium ion, ruthenium ion, yttrium ion, lanthanoid ion, actinoid ion, tetrabutylammonium ion, tetraethylammonium ion, tetramethylammonium ion, triethylmethylammonium ion, triethylammonium ion, pyridinium ion, imidazolium ion, hydrogen ion, tetraethylphosphonium ion, tetramethylphosphonium ion, tetraphenylphosphonium ion, triphenylsulfonium ion, and triethylsulfonium ion. In the case of considering the application of the ionic metal complex for electrochemical devices and the like, lithium ion, tetraalkylammonium ion and hydrogen ion are preferable. As shown in the general formula (1), the valency (valence) of the A^(a+) cation is preferably from 1 to 3. If the valency is larger than 3, the problem occurs in which it becomes difficult to dissolve the ionic metal complex in solvent due to the increase in crystal lattice energy. Consequently, in the case of requiring solubility of the ionic metal complex, a valency of 1 is preferable. As shown in the general formula (1), the valency (b⁻) of the anion is similarly preferably from 1 to 3, and a valency of 1 is particularly preferable. The constant p expresses the ratio of the valency of the anion to the valency of the cation, namely b/a.

In the general formula (1), M at the center of the ionic metal complex of the present invention is selected from elements of groups 3-15 of the periodic table. It is preferably Al, B, V, Ti, Si, Zr, Ge, Sn, Cu, Y, Zn, Ga, Nb, Ta, Bi, P, As, Sc, Hf or Sb, and more preferably Al, B or P. Although it is possible to use various elements for the M other than these preferable examples, synthesis is relatively easy in the case of using Al, B, V, Ti, Si, Zr, Ge, Sn, Cu, Y, Zn, Ga, Nb, Ta, Bi, P, As, Sc, Hf or Sb. In addition to ease of synthesis, the ionic metal complex has excellent properties in terms of low toxicity, stability and production cost in the case of using Al, B or P.

In the general formula (1), the organic or inorganic portion bonded to M is referred to as the ligand. As mentioned above, X¹ in the general formula (1) represents O, S, NR⁵ or NR⁵R⁶, and is bonded to M through its hetero atom (O, S or N). Although the bonding of an atom other than O, S or N is not impossible, the synthesis becomes extremely bothersome. The ionic metal complex represented by the general formula (1) is characterized by these ligands forming a chelate structure with M since there is bonding with M by a carboxyl group (—COO⁻) other than X¹ within the same ligand. As a result of this chlelation, the heat resistance, chemical stability and hydrolysis resistance of the ionic metal complex are improved. Although constant q in this ligand is either 0 or 1, in the case of 0 in particular, since the chelate ring becomes a five-member ring, chelating effects are demonstrated most prominently, making this preferable due to the resulting increase in stability. In addition, since the negative charge of the central M is dissipated by electron attracting effects of the carboxyl group(s) resulting in an increase in electrical stability of the anion, ion dissociation becomes extremely easy resulting in corresponding increases of the ionic metal complex in solvent solubility, ion conductivity, catalyst activity and so forth. In addition, the other properties of heat resistance, chemical stability and hydrolysis resistance are also improved.

In the general formula (1), each of R¹ and R² is independently selected from H, halogen, C₁-C₁₀ alkyl groups and C₁-C₁₀ halogenated alkyl groups. At least one of either R¹ and R² is preferably a fluorinated alkyl group, and more preferably, at least one of R¹ and R² is a trifluoromethyl group. Due to the presence of an electron-attracting halogen and/or a halogenated alkyl group for R¹ and R², the negative charge of the central M is dissipated. This results in an increase of the anion of the general formula (1) in electrical stability. With this, the ion dissociation becomes extremely easy resulting in an increase of the ionic metal complex in solvent solubility, ion conductivity, catalyst activity and so forth. In addition, other properties of heat resistance, chemical stability and hydrolysis resistance are also improved. The case in which the halogen is fluorine in particular has significant advantageous effects, while the case of a trifluoromethyl group has the greatest advantageous effect.

In the general formula (1), R³ is selected from C¹-C₁₀ alkylene groups, C₁-C₁₀ halogenated alkylene groups, C₄-C₂₀ arylene groups and C₄-C₂₀ halogenated arylene groups. R³ is preferably one which forms a 5 to 10-membered ring when a chelate ring is formed with the central M. The case of a ring having more than 10 members is not preferable, since chelating advantageous effects are reduced. In addition, in the case R³ has a portion of hydroxyl group or carboxyl group, it is possible to form a bond between the central M and this portion.

In the general formula (1), R⁴ is selected from halogens, C₁-C₁₀ alkyl groups, C₁-C₁₀ halogenated alkyl groups, C₄-C₂₀ aryl groups, C₄-C₂₀ halogenated aryl groups and X²R⁷. Of these, fluorine is preferable. X² represents O, S, NR⁵ or NR⁵R⁶ and bonds to M through one of these heteroatoms (O, S and N). Although the bonding of an atom other than O, S or N is not impossible, the synthesis becomes extremely bothersome. Each of R⁵ and R⁶ is selected from H and C₁-C₁₀ alkyl groups. Each of R⁵ and R⁶ differs from other groups (e.g., R¹ and R²) in that the former is not required to be an electron attracting group. In the case of introducing an electron attracting group as R⁵ or R⁶, the electron density on N of NR⁵R⁶ decreases, thereby preventing coordination on the central M. R⁷ is selected from C₁-C₁₀ alkyl groups, C₁-C₁₀ halogenated alkyl groups, C₄-C₂₀ aryl groups and C₄-C₂₀ halogenated aryl groups. Of these, a C₁-C₁₀ fluorinated alkyl groups is preferable. Due to the presence of an electron-attracting halogenated alkyl group as R⁷, the negative charge of the central M is dissipated. Since this increases the electrical stability of the anion of the general formula (1), ion dissociation becomes extremely easy resulting in an increase of the ionic metal complex in solvent solubility, ion conductivity and catalyst activity. In addition, other properties of heat resistance, chemical stability and hydrolysis resistance are also improved. The case in which the halogenated alkyl group as R⁷ is a fluorinated alkyl group in particular results in even greater advantageous effects.

In the general formula (1), the values of the constants m and n relating to the number of the above-mentioned ligands depend on the type of the central M. In fact, m is preferably from 1 to 4, while n is preferably from 0 to 8. Furthermore, m may be from 1 to 3, while n may be from 0 to 4.

According to a first preferred embodiment of the invention, the electrolyte contains the ionic metal complex represented by the general formula (1) and another component that is at least one compound selected from the above-mentioned second to fourth compounds represented by the general formulas (2), (3) and (4). Examples of these compounds are LiCF₃SO₃, LiN(CF₃SO₂)₂, LiN(SO₂C₂F₅)₂, LiN(SO₂CF₃)(SO₂C₄F₉) and LiC(CF₃SO₂)₃. If the ionic metal complex is omitted in the first preferred embodiment, the following problem occurs. That is, the another component corrodes the aluminum collector inside the cell when a potential is applied. With this, the capacity is lowered by repeating the charge and discharge cycle. In contrast, according to the first preferred embodiment, the aluminum collector corrosion can unexpectedly be prevented by using a mixture of the ionic metal complex and the another component. The reason of this is not clear. It is, however, assumed that the ionic metal complex is slightly decomposed on the electrode surface and that a film of the ionic metal complex's ligand is formed on the aluminum surface, thereby preventing the aluminum collector corrosion.

According to a second preferred embodiment of the invention, the electrolyte contains the ionic metal complex represented by the general formula (1) and another component that is at least one compound selected from the above-mentioned fifth to ninth compounds respectively represented by the general formulas A^(a+)(PF₆ ⁻)_(a), A^(a+)(ClO₄ ⁻)_(a), A^(a+)(BF₄ ⁻)_(a), A^(a+)(AsF₆ ⁻)_(a), and A^(a+)(SbF₆ ⁻)_(a) where A^(a+) is preferably the same ion as that in the general formula (1). If the ionic metal complex is omitted in the second preferred embodiment, the following problem occurs. That is, the anion(s) tends to be pyrolyzed at a high temperature of 60° C. or higher, thereby generating a Lewis acid(s). This Lewis acid decomposes the solvent and makes the electrochemical device inferior in performance and lifetime. Furthermore, the omission of the ionic metal complex causes hydrolysis of the anion(s) when the electrolyte is contaminated with a very small amount of water. This hydrolysis generates an acid(s) that makes the electrochemical device inferior in performance and lifetime. In contrast, according to the second preferred embodiment, the above-mentioned pyrolysis and hydrolysis can unexpectedly be prevented by using a mixture of the ionic metal complex and the another component. The reason of this is not clear. It is, however, assumed that the properties of the solution as a whole change somehow to achieve this prevention by a certain interaction between the ionic metal complex and the another component.

According to a third preferred embodiment of the invention, the electrolyte contains the ionic metal complex represented by the general formula (1) and another component that is at least one compound selected from the above-mentioned tenth to twelfth compounds represented by the general formulas (5), (6) and (7). Examples of these compounds are CF₃CH₂OSO₃Li, (CF₃)₂CHOSO₃Li, (CF₃CH₂OSO₂)₂NLi, ((CF₃)₂CHOSO₂)₂NLi, (CF₃CH₂OSO₂)((CF₃)₂CHOSO₂)NLi, ((CF₃)₂COSO₂)₂NLi, and ((CF₃)₂CHOSO₂)₃CLi. Further examples are polymers and oligomers such as [N(Li)SO₂OCH₂(CF₂)₄CH₂OSO₂]_(n) where n is a number of 2-1,000. If the ionic metal complex is omitted in the third preferred embodiment, the following problem occurs. That is, the another component corrodes the aluminum collector inside the cell when a potential is applied. With this, the capacity is lowered by repeating the charge and discharge cycle. In contrast, according to the third preferred embodiment, the aluminum collector corrosion can unexpectedly be prevented by using a mixture of the ionic metal complex and the another component. The reason of this is not clear. It is, however, assumed that the ionic metal complex is slightly decomposed on the electrode surface and that a film of the ionic metal complex's ligand is formed on the aluminum surface, thereby preventing the aluminum collector corrosion.

In the invention, the molar ratio of the ionic metal complex to the at least one compound is preferably 1:99 to 99:1 (or a range from 5:95 to 95:5), more preferably 20:80 to 80:20 (or a range from 30:70 to 70:30), in view of improving the electrochemical device in cycle characteristics and shelf life. If this ratio is less than 1:99 (or 5:95), it may become insufficient to prevent the above-mentioned aluminum corrosion and/or the above-mentioned pyrolysis and hydrolysis, thereby making the electrolyte inferior in cycle characteristics and shelf life. If the ratio is greater than 99:1 (or 95:5), advantages of adding the at least one compound to increase ionic conductivity and electrochemical stability may become insufficient.

There are no particular restrictions on the process for synthesizing the ionic metal complex. An exemplary process for producing the ionic metal complex is disclosed in European Patent Application EP 1075036 A2.

In the case of preparing an electrochemical device of the present invention, its basic structural elements are ion conductor, negative electrode, positive electrode, collector, separator, container and the like.

A mixture of electrolyte and non-aqueous solvent or polymer is used as the ion conductor. If a non-aqueous solvent is used, the resulting ion conductor is typically referred to as an electrolytic solution, while if a polymer is used, it is typically referred to as a polymer solid electrolyte. Non-aqueous solvent may also be contained as plasticizer in polymer solid electrolytes.

There are no particular restrictions on the non-aqueous solvent provided it is an aprotic solvent that is able to dissolve an electrolyte of the present invention, and examples of this non-aqueous solvent that can be used include carbonates, esters, ethers, lactones, nitrites, amides and sulfones. In addition, the solvent can either be used alone or in the form of a mixture of two or more types of solvent. Specific examples of the solvent include propylene carbonate, ethylene carbonate, diethyl carbonate, dimethyl carbonate, methylethyl carbonate, dimethoxyethane, acetonitrile, propionitrile, tetrahydrofuran, 2-methyltetrahydrofuran, dioxane, nitromethane, N, N-dimethylformamide, dimethylsulfoxide, sulfolane and γ-butyrolactone.

In case that A^(a+) of the general formula (1) is lithium ion, the non-aqueous solvent of an electrolytic solution is preferably a mixture of a first aprotic solvent having a dielectric constant of 20 or greater and a second aprotic solvent having a dielectric constant of 10 or less. In fact, lithium salt has a low solubility in the second aprotic solvent (e.g., diethyl ether and dimethyl carbonate). Therefore, it may be difficult to obtain a sufficient ionic conductivity by using only the second aprotic solvent. In contrast, lithium salt has a high solubility in the first aprotic solvent. The resulting solution is, however, high in viscosity. Thus, it may be difficult to obtain a sufficient ionic conductivity by using only the first aprotic solvent, too. In contrast, it becomes possible to gain a suitable solubility and a suitable ionic mobility by using a mixture of the first and second aprotic solvents, thereby making it possible to obtain a sufficient ionic conductivity.

There are no particular restrictions on the polymer to be mixed with the electrolytes of the invention provided it is an aprotic polymer. Examples of such polymer include polymers having polyethylene oxide on their main chain or side chain, homopolymers or copolymers of polyvinylidene fluoride, methacrylate polymers and polyacrylonitrile. In the case of adding plasticizer to these polymers, the above-mentioned aprotic non-aqueous solvent can be used. The total concentration of the electrolytes of the present invention in these ion conductors is preferably 0.1 mol/dm³ or more up to the saturated concentration, and more preferably from 0.5 mol/dm³ to 1.5 mol/dm³. If the concentration is lower than 0.1 mol/dm³, ion conductivity may become too low.

There are no particular restrictions on the negative electrode material for preparing an electrochemical device. In the case of lithium cell, lithium metal (metallic lithium) or an alloy of lithium and another metal can be used. In the case of a lithium ion cell, it is possible to use an intercalation compound containing lithium atoms in a matrix of another material, such as carbon, natural graphite or metal oxide. This carbon can be obtained by baking polymer, organic substance, pitch or the like. In the case of electrical double-layer capacitor, it is possible to use activated carbon, porous metal oxide, porous metal, conductive polymer and so forth.

There are no particular restrictions on the positive electrode material. In the case of lithium cell or lithium ion cell, lithium-containing oxides such as LiCoO₂, LiNiO₂, LiMnO₂ and LiMn₂O₄; oxides such as TiO₂, V₂O₅ and MoO₃; sulfides such as TiS₂ and FeS; and electrically conductive polymers such as polyacetylene, polyparaphenylene, polyaniline or polypyrrole can be used. In the case of electrical double-layer capacitor, activated carbon, porous metal oxide, porous metal, electrically conductive polymer and so forth can be used.

The following nonlimitative examples are illustrative of the present invention. In fact, Examples 1—1 to 1-5 are illustrative of the above-mentioned first preferred embodiment of the invention, and Examples 2-1 to 2-4 are illustrative of the above-mentioned second preferred embodiment of the invention, and Examples 3-1 to 3-4 are illustrative of the above-mentioned third preferred embodiment of the invention.

EXAMPLE 1-1

A lithium borate derivative, represented by the following formula, and LiN(SO₂C₂F₅)₂ were dissolved in a mixture of ethylene carbonate (EC) and dimethyl carbonate (DMC) (EC:DMC =1:1 by volume) to prepare an electrolytic solution having a lithium borate derivative concentration of 0.05 mol/liter and a LiN(SO₂C₂F₅)₂ concentration of 0.95 mol/liter.

Then, ion conductivity of the electrolytic solution was measured with an alternating current bipolar-type cell. As a result, the ion conductivity was 7.6 mS/cm at 25° C.

A corrosion test of an aluminum collector was performed using the above-mentioned electrolytic solution. A beaker type cell was used for the test cell, using aluminum for the working electrode, and lithium metal (metallic lithium) for the counter electrode and reference electrode. When the working electrode was held at 5 V (Li/Li⁺), there was no flow of current whatsoever. Following testing, although the surface of the working electrode was observed by SEM, there were no changes observed in comparison with that before testing.

A charging and discharging test of an actual cell was conducted using the above-mentioned electrolytic solution. The test cell (half cell) was prepared in the manner described below. The positive electrode was prepared by mixing 5 parts by weight of polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) as a binder and 5 parts by weight of acetylene black as a conductor with 90 parts by weight of a LiCoO₂ powder followed by the addition of N,N-dimethylformamide to form a paste. This paste was applied to an aluminum foil and allowed to dry to obtain the test positive electrode. Lithium metal was used for the negative electrode. A glass fiber filter as a separator was impregnated with the electrolytic solution, thereby assembling the cell.

Next, a constant current charging and discharging test was conducted as described below. The current density was 0.35 mA/cm² for both charging and discharging, while charging was performed until 4.2 V and discharging until 3.0 V (vs. Li/Li⁺). As a result, the initial discharge capacity was 118 mAh/g (the positive electrode capacity). Although charging and discharging were repeated 100 times, results were obtained in which the capacity of the 100^(th) cycle was 91% of the initial capacity.

EXAMPLE 1-2

A lithium borate derivative, represented by the following formula, and LiN(SO₂CF₃)₂ were dissolved in a mixture of propylene carbonate (PC) and diethyl carbonate (DEC) (PC:DEC=1:1 by volume) to prepare an electrolytic solution having a lithium borate derivative concentration of 0.10 mol/liter and a LiN(SO₂CF₃)₂ concentration of 0.90 mol/liter.

Then, ion conductivity of the electrolytic solution was measured with an alternating current bipolar-type cell. As a result, the ion conductivity was 8.6 mS/cm at 25° C.

A corrosion test of an aluminum collector was performed in the same manner as that of Example 1-1. When the working electrode was held at 5 V (Li/Li⁺), there was no flow of current whatsoever. Following testing, although the surface of the working electrode was observed by SEM, there were no changes observed in comparison with that before testing.

The test cell (half cell) was prepared in the same manner as that of Example 1—1, and a constant current charging and discharging test was conducted in the same manner as that of Example 11. As a result, the initial discharge capacity was 115 mAh/g (the positive electrode capacity). Although charging and discharging were repeated 100 times, results were obtained in which the capacity of the 100^(th) cycle was 86% of the initial capacity.

EXAMPLE 1-3

A lithium borate derivative, represented by the following formula, and LiN(SO₂CF₃)(SO₂C₄F₉) were dissolved in a mixture of ethylene carbonate (EC) and dimethyl carbonate (DMC) (EC:DMC=1:1 by volume) to prepare an electrolytic solution having a lithium borate derivative concentration of 0.05 mol/liter and a LiN(SO₂CF₃)(SO₂C₄F₉) concentration of 0.95 mol/liter.

Then, ion conductivity of the electrolytic solution was measured with an alternating current bipolar-type cell. As a result, the ion conductivity was 6.7 mS/cm at 25° C.

A corrosion test of an aluminum collector was performed in the same manner as that of Example 1—1. When the working electrode was held at 5 V (Li/Li⁺), there was no flow of current whatsoever. Following testing, although the surface of the working electrode was observed by SEM, there were no changes observed in comparison with that before testing.

The test cell (half cell) was prepared in the same manner as that of Example 1—1, and a constant current charging and discharging test was conducted in the same manner as that of Example 11. As a result, the initial discharge capacity was 120 mAh/g (the positive electrode capacity). Although charging and discharging were repeated 100 times, results were obtained in which the capacity of the 100^(th) cycle was 92% of the initial capacity.

EXAMPLE 1-4

A lithium borate derivative, represented by the following formula, and LiN(SO₂CF₃)(SO₂C₄F₉) were dissolved in a mixture of ethylene carbonate (EC) and dimethyl carbonate (DMC) (EC:DMC=1:1 by volume) to prepare an electrolytic solution having a lithium borate derivative concentration of 0.30 mol/liter and a LiN(SO₂CF₃)(SO₂C₄F₉) concentration of 0.70 mol/liter.

Then, ion conductivity of the electrolytic solution was measured with an alternating current bipolar-type cell. As a result, the ion conductivity was 5.8 mS/cm at 25° C.

A corrosion test of an aluminum collector was performed in the same manner as that of Example 1—1. When the working electrode was held at 5 V (Li/Li⁺), there was no flow of current whatsoever. Following testing, although the surface of the working electrode was observed by SEM, there were no changes observed in comparison with that before testing.

The test cell (half cell) was prepared in the same manner as that of Example 1—1, and a constant current charging and discharging test was conducted in the same manner as that of Example 11. As a result, the initial discharge capacity was 120 mAh/g (the positive electrode capacity). Although charging and discharging were repeated 100 times, results were obtained in which the capacity of the 100^(th) cycle was 94% of the initial capacity.

EXAMPLE 1-5

A solution was prepared by adding acetonitrile to 70 parts by weight of a polyethylene oxide (average molecular weight: 10,000). Then, 20 parts by weight of a lithium borate derivative, which is the same as that of Example 11, and 10 parts by weight of LiN(SO₂C₂F₅)₂ were added to the solution. The resulting mixture was cast on a glass, followed by drying to remove the acetonitrile. With this, a polymer solid electrolyte film was prepared.

The test cell was prepared in the same manner as that of Example 11 except in that the polymer solid electrolyte film was used in place of the electrolytic solution and the separator. In fact, LiCoO₂ was used as a positive electrode material, and lithium metal was used as a negative electrode material. A constant current charging and discharging test was conducted at 70° C. under the following conditions. The current density was 0.1 mA/cm² for both charging and discharging, while charging was performed until 4.2 V and discharging until 3.0 V (vs. Li/Li⁺). As a result, the initial discharge capacity was 120 mAh/g (the positive electrode capacity). Although charging and discharging were repeated 100 times, results were obtained in which the capacity of the 100^(th) cycle was 87% of the initial capacity.

COMPARATIVE EXAMPLE 1-1

At first, LiN(SO₂C₂F₅)₂ was dissolved in a mixture of ethylene carbonate (EC) and dimethyl carbonate (DMC) (EC:DMC=1:1 by volume) to prepare an electrolytic solution having a LiN(SO₂C₂F₅)₂ concentration of 1.0 mol/liter.

A corrosion test of an aluminum collector was performed in the same manner as that of Example 11. When the working electrode was held at 5 V (Li/Li⁺), corrosion current was observed. Following testing, the surface of the working electrode was observed by SEM. With this, many pits were observed on its surface. It is assumed that these pits were caused by corrosion.

The test cell (half cell) was prepared in the same manner as that of Example 1—1, and a constant current charging and discharging test was conducted in the same manner as that of Example 11. As a result, the initial discharge capacity was 117 mAh/g (the positive electrode capacity). Although charging and discharging were repeated 100 times, results were obtained in which the capacity of the 100^(th) cycle was 69% of the initial capacity.

COMPARATIVE EXAMPLE 1-2

At first, LiN(SO₂CF₃)₂ was dissolved in a mixture of propylene carbonate (PC) and diethyl carbonate (DEC) (PC:DEC=1:1 by volume) to prepare an electrolytic solution having a LiN(SO₂CF₃)₂ concentration of 1.0 mol/liter.

A corrosion test of an aluminum collector was performed in the same manner as that of Example 1—1. When the working electrode was held at 5 V (Li/Li⁺), corrosion current was observed. Following testing, the surface of the working electrode was observed by SEM. With this, many pits were observed on its surface. It is assumed that these pits were caused by corrosion.

The test cell (half cell) was prepared in the same manner as that of Example 11, and a constant current charging and discharging test was conducted in the same manner as that of Example 11. As a result, the initial discharge capacity was 112 mAh/g (the positive electrode capacity). Although charging and discharging were repeated 100 times, results were obtained in which the capacity of the 100^(th) cycle was 67% of the initial capacity.

COMPARATIVE EXAMPLE 1-3

At first, LiN(SO₂CF₃)(SO₂C₄F₉) was dissolved in a mixture of ethylene carbonate (EC) and dimethyl carbonate (DMC) (EC:DMC =1:1 by volume) to prepare an electrolytic solution having a LiN(SO₂CF₃)(SO₂C₄F₉) concentration of 1.0 mol/liter.

A corrosion test of an aluminum collector was performed in the same manner as that of Example 11. When the working electrode was held at 5 V (Li/Li⁺), corrosion current was observed. Following testing, the surface of the working electrode was observed by SEM. With this, many pits were observed on its surface. It is assumed that these pits were caused by corrosion.

The test cell (half cell) was prepared in the same manner as that of Example 11, and a constant current charging and discharging test was conducted in the same manner as that of Example 11. As a result, the initial discharge capacity was 118 mAh/g (the positive electrode capacity). Although charging and discharging were repeated 100 times, results were obtained in which the capacity of the 100^(th) cycle was 74% of the initial capacity.

EXAMPLE 2-1

An electrolytic solution was prepared by the same manner as that of Example 11, except that LiN(SO₂C₂F₅)₂ was replaced with LiPF₆. This electrolytic solution had a lithium borate derivative concentration of 0.05 mol/liter and a LiPF₆ concentration of 0.95 mol/liter.

A charging and discharging test of an actual cell was conducted using the above-mentioned electrolytic solution. The test cell was prepared in the manner described below. The positive electrode of LiCoO₂ was prepared by the same manner as that of Example 1—1. The negative electrode of natural graphite was prepared by mixing 10 parts by weight of polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) as a binder with 90 parts by weight of a LiCoO₂ powder followed by the addition of N,N-dimethylformamide to form a slurry. This slurry was applied to an copper foil and allowed to dry at 150° C. for 12 hr to obtain the test negative electrode. A polyethylene separator was impregnated with the electrolytic solution, thereby assembling the cell.

Next, a constant current charging and discharging test was conducted at 70° C. under the following conditions. The current density was 0.35 mA/cm² for both charging and discharging, while charging was performed until 4.2 V and discharging until 3.0 V (vs. Li/Li⁺). Although charging and discharging were repeated 500 times, results were obtained in which the capacity of the 500^(th) cycle was 81% of the initial capacity.

EXAMPLE 2-2

An electrolytic solution was prepared by substantially the same manner as that of Example 1-2, in which LiN(SO₂CF₃)₂ was replaced with LiPF₆. The resulting electrolytic solution had a lithium borate derivative concentration of 0.30 mol/liter and a LiPF₆ concentration of 0.70 mol/liter.

The test cell was prepared in the same manner as that of Example 2-1, and a constant current charging and discharging test was conducted in the same manner as that of Example 2-1. The capacity of the 500^(th) cycle was 86% of the initial capacity.

EXAMPLE 2-3

An electrolytic solution was prepared by substantially the same manner as that of Example 1-3, in which LiN(SO₂CF₃)(SO₂C₄F₉) was replaced with LiBF₄. The resulting electrolytic solution had a lithium borate derivative concentration of 0.30 mol/liter and a LiBF₄ concentration of 0.70 mol/liter.

The test cell was prepared in the same manner as that of Example 2-1, and a constant current charging and discharging test was conducted in the same manner as that of Example 2-1. The capacity of the 500^(th) cycle was 78% of the initial capacity.

EXAMPLE 2-4

A solution was prepared by adding acetonitrile to 80 parts by weight of a polyethylene oxide-(average molecular weight: 10,000). Then, 10 parts by weight of a lithium borate derivative, which is the same as that of Example 11, and 10 parts by weight of LiPF₆ were added to the solution. The resulting mixture was cast on a glass, followed by drying to remove the acetonitrile. With this, a polymer solid electrolyte film was prepared.

The test cell was prepared in the same manner as that of Example 2-1 except in that the polymer solid electrolyte film was used in place of the electrolytic solution and the separator. In fact, LiCoO₂ was used as a positive electrode material, and natural graphite was used as a negative electrode material. A constant current charging and discharging test was conducted at 70° C. under the following conditions. The current density was 0.1 mA/cm² for both charging and discharging, while charging was performed until 4.2 V and discharging until 3.0 V (vs. Li/Li⁺). As a result, the initial discharge capacity was 120 mAh/g (the positive electrode capacity). Although charging and discharging were repeated 500 times, results were obtained in which the capacity of the 500^(th) cycle was 91% of the initial capacity.

COMPARATIVE EXAMPLE 2-1

At first, LiPF₆ was dissolved in a mixture of ethylene carbonate (EC) and dimethyl carbonate (DMC) (EC:DMC=1:1 by volume) to prepare an electrolytic solution having a LiPF₆ concentration of 1.0 mol/liter.

The test cell was prepared in the same manner as that of Example 2-1, and a constant current charging and discharging test was conducted in the same manner as that of Example 2-1. The capacity of the 500^(th) cycle was 64% of the initial capacity.

COMPARATIVE EXAMPLE 2-2

At first, LiBF₄ was dissolved in a mixture of ethylene carbonate (EC) and dimethyl carbonate (DMC) (EC:DMC=1:1 by volume) to prepare an electrolytic solution having a LiBF₄ concentration of 1.0 mol/lliter.

The test cell was prepared in the same manner as that of Example 2-1, and a constant current charging and discharging test was conducted in the same manner as that of Example 2-1. The capacity of the 500^(th) cycle was 46% of the initial capacity.

EXAMPLE 3-1

A lithium borate derivative, which was the same as that of Example 11, and ((CF₃)₂CHOSO₂)₂NLi were dissolved in a mixture of ethylene carbonate (EC) and dimethyl carbonate (DMC) (EC:DMC=1:1 by volume) to prepare an electrolytic solution having a lithium borate derivative concentration of 0.01 mol/liter and a ((CF₃)₂CHOSO₂)₂NLi concentration of 0.99 mol/liter.

A corrosion test of an aluminum collector was performed in the same manner as that of Example 1—1. When the working electrode was held at 5 V (Li/Li⁺), there was no flow of current whatsoever. Following testing, although the surface of the working electrode was observed by SEM, there were no changes observed in comparison with that before testing.

The test cell was prepared by the same manner as that of Example 2-1. A constant current charging and discharging test was conducted by the same manner as that of Example 2-1, except that the test was conducted at an environmental temperature of 25° C. The capacity of the 500^(th) cycle was 91% of the initial capacity.

EXAMPLE 3-2

A lithium borate derivative, which was the same as that of Example 11, and (CF₃CH20SO₂)₂NLi were dissolved in a mixture of ethylene carbonate (EC) and diethyl carbonate (DEC) (EC:DEC =1:1 by volume) to prepare an electrolytic solution having a lithium borate derivative concentration of 0.90 mol/liter and a (CF₃CH₂OSO₂)₂NLi concentration of 0.10 mol/liter.

A corrosion test of an aluminum collector was performed in the same manner as that of Example 1—1. When the working electrode was held at 5 V (Li/Li⁺), there was no flow of current whatsoever. Following testing, although the surface of the working electrode was observed by SEM, there were no changes observed in comparison with that before testing.

The test cell was prepared by the same manner as that of Example 2-1. A constant current charging and discharging test was conducted by the same manner as that of Example 2-1, except that the test was conducted at an environmental temperature of 60° C. The capacity of the 500^(th) cycle was 85% of the initial capacity.

EXAMPLE 3-3

A lithium borate derivative, which was the same as that of Example 1-2, and ((CF₃)₂CHOSO₂)₂NLi were dissolved in a mixture of ethylene carbonate (EC) and ethylmethyl carbonate (EMC) (EC:EMC=1:1 by volume) to prepare an electrolytic solution having a lithium borate derivative concentration of 0.70 mol/liter and a ((CF₃)₂CHOSO₂)₂NLi concentration of 0.30 mol/liter.

A corrosion test of an aluminum collector was performed in the same manner as that of Example 1—1. When the working electrode was held at 5 V (Li/Li⁺), there was no flow of current whatsoever. Following testing, although the surface of the working electrode was observed by SEM, there were no changes observed in comparison with that before testing.

The test cell was prepared by the same manner as that of Example 2-1. A constant current charging and discharging test was conducted by the same manner as that of Example 2-1, except that the test was conducted at an environmental temperature of 60° C. The capacity of the 500^(th) cycle was 88% of the initial capacity.

EXAMPLE 3-4

A solution was prepared by adding acetonitrile to 70 parts by weight of a polyethylene oxide (average molecular weight: 10,000). Then, 5 parts by weight of a lithium borate derivative, which was the same as that of Example 1-1, and 25 parts by weight of ((CF₃)₂CHOSO₂)₂NLi were added to the solution. The resulting mixture was cast on a glass, followed by drying to remove the acetonitrile. With this, a polymer solid electrolyte film was prepared.

A corrosion test of an aluminum collector was performed using a laminate including the solid electrolyte film interposed between an aluminum electrode (working electrode) and a lithium electrode. This laminate was prepared by press welding. When the working electrode was held at 5 V (Li/Li⁺), there was no flow of current whatsoever. Following testing, although the surface of the working electrode was observed by SEM, there were no changes observed in comparison with that before testing.

The test cell was prepared in the same manner as that of Example 2-4, and a constant current charging and discharging test was conducted in the same manner as that of Example 2-4 except that charging and discharging were repeated 100 times. As a result, the initial discharge capacity was 120 mAh/g (the positive electrode capacity). The capacity of the 100^(th) cycle was 94% of the initial capacity.

COMPARATIVE EXAMPLE 3-1

At first, ((CF₃)₂CHOSO₂)₂NLi was dissolved in a mixture of ethylene carbonate (EC) and dimethyl carbonate (DMC) (EC:DMC=1:1 by volume) to prepare an electrolytic solution having a ((CF₃)₂CHOSO₂)₂NLi concentration of 1.0 mol/liter.

A corrosion test of an aluminum collector was performed in the same manner as that of Example 11. When the working electrode was held at 5 V (Li/Li⁺), corrosion current was observed. Following testing, the surface of the working electrode was observed by SEM. With this, many pits were observed on its surface. It is assumed that these pits were caused by corrosion.

The test cell was prepared in the same manner as that of Example 2-1, and a constant current charging and discharging test was conducted in the same manner as that of Example 2-1, except that the test was conducted at an environmental temperature of 25° C. The capacity of the 500^(th) cycle was 62% of the initial capacity.

COMPARATIVE EXAMPLE 3-2

At first, (CF₃CH₂OSO₂)₂NLi was dissolved in a mixture of ethylene carbonate (EC) and diethyl carbonate (DEC) (EC:DEC=1:1 by volume) to prepare an electrolytic solution having a (CF₃CH₂OSO₂)₂NLi concentration of 1.0 mol/liter.

A corrosion test of an aluminum collector was performed in the same manner as that of Example 1—1. When the working electrode was held at 5 V (Li/Li⁺), corrosion current was observed. Following testing, the surface of the working electrode was observed by SEM. With this, many pits were observed on its surface. It is assumed that these pits were caused by corrosion.

The test cell was prepared in the same manner as that of Example 2-1, and a constant current charging and discharging test was conducted in the same manner as that of Example 2-1, except that the test was conducted at an environmental temperature of 60° C. The capacity of the 500^(th) cycle was 58% of the initial capacity.

COMPARATIVE EXAMPLE 3-3

At first, a lithium borate derivative, which was the same as that of Example 1-1, was dissolved in a mixture of ethylene carbonate (EC) and ethylmethyl carbonate (EMC) (EC:EMC=1:1 by volume) to prepare an electrolytic solution having a lithium borate derivative concentration of 1.0 mol/liter.

The test cell was prepared in the same manner as that of Example 2-1, and a constant current charging and discharging test was conducted in the same manner as that of Example 2-1, except that the test was conducted at an environmental temperature of 60° C. The capacity of the 500^(th) cycle was 25% of the initial capacity.

The entire disclosure of Japanese Patent Applications No. 2000-134926 filed on May 8, 2000, No. 2000-173094 filed on Jun. 9, 2000, and No. 2001-020898 and No. 2001-020899 each filed on Jan. 30, 2001, including specification, claims and summary, is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. 

What is claimed is:
 1. An electrolyte for an electrochemical device, said electrolyte comprising: a first compound that is an ionic metal complex represented by the general formula (1); and

at least one compound selected from the group consisting of compounds corresponding to any one of the formulas

wherein A^(a+) represents a metal ion, onium ion or hydrogen ion; M is a transition metal selected from the group consisting of elements of groups 3 11 of the periodic table, or an element selected from the group consisting of elements of groups 12-15 of the periodic table; a represents a number from 1 to 3; b represents a number from 1 to 3; p is b/a; m represents a number from 1 to 4; n represents a number from 0 to 8; q is 0 or 1; X¹ represents 0, NR⁵ or NR⁵R^(6;) R¹ and R² each independently represent H, a halogen, a C₁-C₁₀ alkyl group or C₁-C₁₀ halogenated alkyl group; R³ represents a C₁-C₁₀ halogenated alkylene group, C₄-C₂₀ arylene group or C₄-C₂₀ halogenated arylene group, wherein the alkylene and arylene groups of R³ optionally may carry substituents or include hetero atoms, and one group R³ optionally may be bonded with another group R³; R⁴ represents a halogen, C₁-C₁₀ alkyl group, C₁-C₁₀ halogenated alkyl group, C₄-C₂₀ aryl group, C₄-C₂₀ halogenated aryl group of X²R⁷, wherein the alkyl and aryl groups of R⁴ optionally may carry substituents or hetero atoms, and one group R⁴ optionally may be bonded with another group R⁴; X² represents O, S, NR⁵ or NR⁵R⁶; R⁵ and R⁶ each independently represent H or a C₁-C₁₀ alkyl group; R⁷ represents a C₁-C₁₀ alkyl group, C₁-C₁₀ alkyl group, C₁-C₁₀ alkyl group, C₁-C₁₀ halogenated alkyl group, C₄-C₂₀ aryl group, or C₄-C₂₀ halogenated aryl group; x, y and z each independently represent a number from 1 to 8; Y¹, Y² and Y³ each independently represent an SO₂ group or CO group; and R⁸, R⁹ and R¹⁰ each independently represent an electron-attracting organic substituent optionally carrying a substituent or including a hetero atom, wherein two or more of R⁸, R⁹ and R¹⁰ optionally may be bonded together to form a ring, and wherein one or more of R⁸, R⁹ and R¹⁰ optionally may be bonded with an adjacent molecule to form a polymer.
 2. An electrolyte according to claim 1, wherein in formula (1) m represents a number from 1 to 3; n represents a number from 0 to 4; R³ represents a C₁-C₁₀ alkylene group, C₁-C₁₀ halogenated alkylene group, C₄-C₂₀ arylene group, or C₄-C₂₀ halogenated arylene group; and represents a halogen, C₁-C₁₀ alkyl group, C₁-C₁₀ halogenated alkyl group, C₄-C₂₀ aryl group, C₄-C₂₀ halogenated aryl group, or X²R⁷, and wherein said at least one compound is selected from the group consisting of compounds corresponding to any one of formulas (2), (3), and (4).
 3. An electrolyte according to claim 1, wherein in formula (1) m represents a number from 1 to 3; n represents a number from 0 to 4; R³ represents a C₁-C₁₀ alkylene group, C₁-C₁₀ halogenated alkylene group, C₄-C₂₀ arylene group or C₄-C₂₀ halogenated arylene group; and R⁴ represents a halogen, C₁-C₁₀ alkyl group, C₁-C₁₀ halogenated alkyl group, C₄-C₂₀ aryl group, C₄-C₂₀ halogenated aryl group, or X²R⁷, and wherein said at least one compound is selected from the group consisting of compounds corresponding to any one of formulas: A^(a+)(PF₆ ⁻)_(a) A^(a+)(ClO₄ ⁻)_(a) A^(a+)(BF₄ ⁻)_(a) A^(a+)(AsF₆ ⁻)_(a), and A^(a+)(SbF₆ ⁻)_(a).
 4. An electrolyte according to claim 1, wherein M represents an element selected from the group consisting of Al, B, V, Ti, Si, Zr, Ge, Sn, Cu, Y, Zn, Ga, Nb, Ta, Bi, P, As, Sc, Hf, and Sb.
 5. An electrolyte according to claim 4, wherein M represents an element selected from the group consisting of Al, B and P.
 6. An electrolyte according to claim 1, wherein said A^(a+)is a lithium ion, quaternary ammonium ion or hydrogen ion.
 7. An electrolyte according to claim 1, wherein at least one of R¹ and R² is a fluorinated alkyl group.
 8. An electrolyte according to claim 7, wherein said fluorinated alkyl group is trifluoromethyl group.
 9. An electrolyte according to claim 1, wherein R³ is such that a chelate ring containing M in formula (1) is a closed loop of 5-10 bonded atoms.
 10. An electrolyte according to claim 1, wherein R⁷ is a C₁-C₁₀ fluorinated alkyl group.
 11. An electrolyte according to claim 1, wherein said first compound and said at least one compound are present in a molar ratio of from 1:99 to 99:1.
 12. An ion conductor for an electrochemical device, said ion conductor comprising: an electrolyte according to claim 1; and a further constituent selected from the group consisting of a nonaqueous solvent, a polymer and a mixture thereof, wherein electrolyte is dissolved in said further constituent.
 13. An ion conductor according to claim 12, wherein said further constituent is an aprotic nonaqueous solvent, and said ion conductor is an electrolytic solution.
 14. An ion conductor according to claim 13, wherein said further constituent comprises a nonaqueous solvent mixture of a first aprotic solvent having a dielectric constant of 20 or greater and a second aprotic solvent having a dielectric constant of 10 or less.
 15. An ion conductor according to claim 12, wherein A^(a)+ is a lithium ion.
 16. An ion conductor according to claim 12, wherein said further constituent comprises an aprotic polymer, and said ion conductor is a solid electrolyte.
 17. An ion conductor according to claim 12, wherein said electrolyte is present in a concentration within a range of from 0.1 mol/dm³ to a saturated concentration.
 18. An ion conductor according to claim 17, wherein said electrolyte is present in a concentration within a range of from 0.5 mol/dm³ to 1.5 mol/dm³.
 19. An electrochemical device comprising: (a) an ion conductor, and (b) first and second electrodes received in said ion conductor; wherein said ion conductor comprises: (1) an electrolyte according to claim 1; and (2) a further constituent selected from the group consisting of a nonaqueous solvent, a polymer and a mixture thereof, wherein said electrolyte is dissolved in said further constituent.
 20. An electrochemical device according to claim 19, which is a cell or an electrical double-layer capacitor.
 21. An electrochemical device according to claim 20, wherein said cell is a lithium cell or a lithium ion cell. 